Pia Olsson

Summary

Professor Pia Olsson holds a position at the University of Helsinki's Department of Cultures within the Faculty of Arts. She is also affiliated with the Helsinki Institute of Urban and Regional Studies (Urbaria) and the Helsinki Institute of Sustainability Science. Her academic career includes roles as a docent in European ethnology (since 2005) and professorial appointments since 2015. Olsson's research focuses on ethnology, urban studies, memory research, and affective practices, with particular emphasis on multicultural urban encounters and museum collaboration.

Education

• PhD in European Ethnology (1999), University of Helsinki
• Docent in European Ethnology (2005), University of Helsinki
• M.Pol.Sc. in Philosophy (1995), University of Helsinki

Research Interests

Her work explores how people experience and articulate their lives through ethnographic methods, including studies of urban spaces, cultural heritage, and the emotional dimensions of academic funding. Recent projects include 'Voiman paikka' (Places of Power) and 'Kokoelmien kosketus' (Museum Collaborations).

Grants & Projects

• Principal Investigator: 'Emplacing Heritage', 'Voiman paikka' (2020–present)
• Project Manager: 'Kokoelmien kosketus' (2024–2028)

Awards

No specific awards listed; recognized for extensive peer-reviewed publications and academic leadership roles.